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Nutrition and daily life

Sage: a tradition for the throat, in moderation

In folk medicine sage is known as a gargle for sore throats. It has a strong aroma and a bitter taste. This section covers the limits and cautions of sage infusion.

Last updated: ~1 min read
Silvery-green sage leaves and an infusion.
Figure 1.Sage, a strong aroma.

01Short answer

Sage infusion in small amounts is generally safe. Some types of sage contain thujone, which in large amounts or with long use can harm the nervous system and cause seizures. So limit sage to 1–2 cups a day and avoid the essential oil and strong extracts. Gargle with a cooled infusion only if your team allows it. Sage does not treat leukemia.

02Simple explanation

Sage: strong aroma, bitter taste.

Thujone is harmful in large amounts.

No more than 1–2 cups a day.

Essential oil is not for drinking.

03Scientific explanation

NCCIH: thujone in some types of sage can cause seizures and other nervous-system harm at high doses.

NCI: there is no evidence that herbal infusions treat leukemia.

MSK: herbal products can affect how the liver breaks down medicines, so tell your oncologist.

04What happens in the body?

Gargling

For mouth sores hospitals usually recommend salt or bicarbonate rinses; if you want to use sage, ask first.

A cooled sage infusion on a shelf.
Figure 2.Gargle only with approval.

Moderation

One bag per cup, 5 minutes; not a strong brew steeped for hours.

A few sage leaves in a white teapot.
Figure 3.Few leaves, short brew.

Safe brewing

Sealed bag, freshly boiled water, 5 minutes covered, drink hot. Do not drink an infusion that has stood for hours.

With medicines

1–2 cups of a mild infusion a day usually cause no problems; capsules and extracts only with your doctor.

05Brewing: four steps

Sealed bag, swap market herbs, boiling water, drink hot.

Sealed bag — Factory-made.1Sealed bagFactory-made.
Not loose — A bag instead.2Not looseA bag instead.
Boiling water — Covered.3Boiling waterCovered.
Drink soon — Do not keep.4Drink soonDo not keep.
ComfortA warm drink.
FluidsThrough the day.
SafetyBoiling water.

06Key points at a glance

TopicIn brief
GarglingFor mouth sores hospitals usually recommend salt or bicarbonate rinses; if you want to use sage, ask first.
ModerationOne bag per cup, 5 minutes; not a strong brew steeped for hours.
Safe brewingSealed bag, freshly boiled water, 5 minutes covered, drink hot. Do not drink an infusion that has stood for hours.
With medicines1–2 cups of a mild infusion a day usually cause no problems; capsules and extracts only with your doctor.

07Key terms

Thujone
A sage compound harmful in large amounts.
Gargle
Rinsing the throat with liquid.
Infusion
A herb steeped in boiling water.
Extract
A concentrated plant substance.
Neutropenia
Low neutrophils.

08Key points

  • A little is usually safe.
  • Avoid the essential oil.
  • Gargle only with your team’s approval.
  • Sealed bag and boiling water.
  • Capsules only with your doctor.

09Frequently asked questions

Does sage heal mouth sores?

There is no evidence; follow your team’s mouth-care rules.

I have had seizures; is it allowed?

No, not without your doctor’s agreement.

Does this infusion treat leukemia?

No. It is a warm, pleasant drink, not a treatment.

10Questions for your doctor

Take these questions to your appointment. The ones you save are collected on the “My questions” page and stay on this device only.

  1. Does sage heal mouth sores?

  2. I have had seizures; is it allowed?

  3. Does this infusion treat leukemia?

My questions

12Sources

  1. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Sage
  2. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NIH). Herbs at a Glance
  3. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. About Herbs, Botanicals & Other Products
  4. Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Diet Guidelines for Immunosuppressed Patients
  5. National Cancer Institute. Complementary and Alternative Medicine
  6. MedlinePlus. Herbal Medicine
  7. American Institute for Cancer Research. Dry Beans and Peas (Legumes)
  8. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health — The Nutrition Source. Nuts for the heart
  9. NHS. 5 A Day: what counts?
  10. American Institute for Cancer Research. Recommendations for Cancer Prevention
Medical disclaimerThis information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical advice.
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